Artwork

Man with a halberd

Man with a halberd, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1694
Man with a halberd, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1694

Man with a halberd is an oil painting by Arent de Gelder. It dates from 1694 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister.

About this work

Overview

Man with a halberd is a 1694 oil painting by Arent de Gelder, a Dutch artist known for continuing Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man holding a halberd, dressed in dark attire with a serious expression, set against a dark background. His direct gaze engages the viewer, conveying a sense of intensity.

Technique & Style

De Gelder's use of oil paint and expressive brushstrokes creates a textured image. Chiaroscuro, with its strong contrasts of light and dark, adds depth and dimension, contributing to the overall somber effect.

History & Provenance

The painting is held in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, a museum collection of Old Master paintings.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arent de Gelder

Artist

Arent de Gelder

Aert de Gelder (Dutch: ; October 26, 1645 – August 27, 1727) was a Dutch painter, the only Dutch artist to paint in the tradition of Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century.